The Soaking: Experiencing the Promised Power of the Holy Spirit
Have You Been Soaked? Experiencing the Power of the Holy Spirit
Have you ever had something feel strange and unfamiliar at first, only to become a regular part of your life? Think about a toddler learning to walk, an athlete mastering a new skill, or your first few days at a new job. What was once awkward becomes second nature.
In the early church, as recorded in the Book of Acts, the followers of Jesus had an experience that, while seemingly unusual, became a new normal. This experience, a “soaking” in the Holy Spirit, happened at different times to different people, yet it was so foundational that it appears to be meant for every believer, even today.
The Promised Soaking
Before Jesus ascended to heaven, He gave His followers a crucial instruction: “Do not leave Jerusalem until the Father sends you the gift he promised…John baptized with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 1:4-5)
The word “baptized” literally means to be soaked. This wasn’t just a light sprinkle; it was a promise of a complete saturation in the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, with Jesus Himself as the one doing the baptizing.
This raises a vital question for us today: Have I had an experience with Jesus where I have been absolutely SOAKED in the Holy Spirit?
The purpose of this divine soaking isn’t just for a personal feeling; it’s for a powerful purpose. Jesus clarified, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere.” (Acts 1:8) The promise is intrinsically linked to having the power to be a witness for Christ.
What Happens When You Get Soaked?
The book of Acts gives us a vivid picture of what this “soaking” looks like. On the day of Pentecost, as the believers were gathered, three distinct things happened.
The first result was the fulfillment of the promise: “everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 2:4) This was a separate and distinct experience from their initial conversion. When we believe in Jesus, we receive the Holy Spirit and His fruit—love, joy, peace, and more—which is the very personality of Jesus taking root in us.
The second, and often most discussed, result was that they “began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability.” (Acts 2:4) On Pentecost, this miraculous event had a unique purpose: devout Jews from many nations heard the believers declaring “the wonderful things God has done” in their own native tongues. This supernaturally launched the church into a global mission from its very first day.
Ultimately, this experience is about receiving power. Power to be a bold witness, just like Peter who transformed from fearful to fearless. Power to live victoriously over temptation. Power for spiritual warfare.
Why would God choose speaking in a new language as the sign of this empowerment? The Bible tells us that “no one can tame the tongue.” (James 3:8) It is restless, powerful, and often the source of great trouble. When we yield our tongue—the most unruly part of our body—to the Holy Spirit, it’s a profound act of submission. It’s evidence that we have been “plugged in” to His power.
An Encounter for Everyone
This spiritual soaking is not an abnormality; it’s the intended norm for every follower of Jesus. It’s not just a historical event for the early church; it’s an encounter available to you today. It is the promise of the Father, the power of Jesus, and the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Have you been soaked? Have you received the power from on high to be His witness? The promise is for you.